Hemkund Sahib Yatra 2024: Indian Army sends 1st group of soldiers for snow clearing ahead of commencement of sacred journey
Hemkund Sahib Yatra 2024: Gurdwara Shri Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh pilgrimage site nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan peaks, is currently enveloped in a thick blanket of snow, measuring approximately 12 to 15 feet. The surrounding lake, reflecting the serenity of the landscape, resembles a pristine white canvas, enhancing the scenic beauty of the area.
However, this natural wonder poses a significant challenge for pilgrims, as heavy snowfall obstructs access to the sacred site, particularly around a glacier located approximately two km before reaching Hemkund Sahib.
Traditionally tasked with clearing the snow-covered path, Indian Army personnel are once again shouldering this responsibility. Initially scheduled to embark on their journey on April 15, Indian Army soldiers were prepared to depart for Ghagriya, where they would establish a base camp within the gurdwara complex and commence daily snow-clearing operations.
However, in light of the state elections slated for April 19 and at the request of the gurdwara trust, the commencement of this vital task has been rescheduled to April 20.
As per the orders of Brigade Commander Brigadier M.S. Colonel Sunil Yadav of the 418 Independent Engineering Corps has deployed soldiers under the leadership of Harsevak Singh and Pramod Kumar to clear the snow.
On Sunday morning, in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib at Gurudwara Govind Ghat, prayers were offered and permission was sought, and the first group was sent off by Seva Singh, the chief manager of the Gurudwara Trust for Ghagariya.
After acclimatization tomorrow, the group will proceed to clear the snow along the path to Shri Hemkund Sahib. Halfway through the snow-cutting process, a base camp is set up at Ghagariya Gurudwara, where nightly rest is taken, and upon completion of half the task, the base shifts to Shri Hemkund Sahib.
Considering the elections the operation was delayed by a week. The route will be prepared before the pilgrimage begins and was ensured by the brave soldiers of the Indian Army. 35 soldiers and Gurudwara volunteers are fulfilling this responsibility.
In anticipation of this spiritual journey, the Uttarakhand Government, in collaboration with the Shri Hemkund Sahib Trust, has announced May 25 as the auspicious date for the opening of the pilgrimage.
Notably, Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,329 meters (14,200 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest Gurdwaras in the world. The journey to Hemkund Sahib is not only spiritually enriching but also physically demanding due to the high altitude and challenging terrain.
- PTC NEWS
